Pirate Trio Makes Waves with Perfect Game Postseason All-America Honors
GREENVILLE, N.C. – In an electrifying showcase of talent, East Carolina’s baseball stars—Ethan Norby, Braden Burress, and Austin Irby—have netted prestigious All-America accolades from Perfect Game. This recognition follows their stellar performance, leading the Pirates to clinch the American Athletic Conference Tournament Championship and a thrilling appearance in the NCAA Conway Regional final.
Norby Shines as a Star Pitcher
Ethan Norby has been named to the All-America Third Team, and his journey this season has been nothing short of spectacular. With a record of 8-5 and a 3.80 earned run average (ERA), Norby flaunted incredible precision, racking up 119 strikeouts against just 22 walks over 90 innings. As the Pirates geared up for the College World Series, Norby ranked second in the American Athletic Conference and 10th nationally in strikeouts, underscoring his dominance on the mound.
A Historic Performance
Norby’s standout moment came on March 7th when he struck out an astounding 19 batters in a commanding 7-0 victory over then-24th-ranked Coastal Carolina. This performance not only cemented his status but also earned him a spot on the NCAA Conway Regional All-Tournament Team. In an exhilarating 11-6 upset of No. 17 Florida, Norby dazzled with 10 strikeouts and zero walks, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
Burress: A Freshman Force
Braden Burress also enjoyed an incredible season, earning his second First Team Freshman All-America honor and further cementing his place in Pirates history. The Most Outstanding Player at the American Athletic Conference Tournament, Burress lit up the tournament with a scorching .450 batting average (9-for-20), scoring six runs, hitting two home runs, and driving in five RBIs across four games.
Record-Setting Achievements
Burress’s commitment to return for his sophomore season promises more excitement ahead. He led the Pirates with 26 multiple-hit games and was instrumental in their thrilling tournament run, helping East Carolina recapture the championship trophy after a two-year hiatus.
Irby: A Rising Star
Completing the triumphant trio, Austin Irby shone brightly throughout the season, finishing with a .303 batting average and a remarkable 12 home runs. His contributions were pivotal in the NCAA Conway Regional, where he boasted an impressive .588 average (10-for-17), scoring eight runs and knocking in seven RBIs. Irby’s performance earned him vital All-Tournament honors, reflecting his substantial impact on the field.
A Historical Impact
Irby showcased his exceptional skills in the regional opener against Florida, where he notched a four-hit performance with three runs and three RBIs. His ability to perform in high-stakes situations further solidifies his importance to the Pirates as they look forward to future seasons.
Looking Ahead
As East Carolina eyes the future, the contributions of Norby, Burress, and Irby will be vital for the program’s growth. With their talent and determination, these Pirates are set to make even bigger waves in the upcoming seasons.
For sports enthusiasts wanting to dive deeper into the East Carolina baseball program, check out the latest statistics and updates via the East Carolina Athletics page.
With impactful performances and unwavering dedication, it’s clear that this trio not only wears their Purple and Gold with pride but also carries the hopes of their fans into the bright future that lies ahead.
